How to Keep Cool This Summer With Less Money and Less Energy!

Summer is officially here, along with the barbeque, fireworks, hot dogs and long days swimming. But what about when you’re not out and about? What about when the kids are home, it’s sweltering hot outside and you’re hiding out in the house cave, worrying about how much this heat wave is going to cost you? That’s no way to spend the most fun season of the year, so we want to help you with a few tips to reduce your stress and spending this year, all while keeping cool and having fun. Sound good?

For starters, it’s important to be clear that the best use out of your home cooling system is going to happen in a home that supports air flow. If you your home doesn’t circulate air well, it may be in your best interest to talk with one of our professional contractors to see about planning a solution to at least prepare for next year. Now, assuming you’ve got great airflow, or can make due til next year, these tips are just what you need.

First easy tip? Check your air filters. So many homeowners don’t realize how important of a role air filters play in home cooling efficiency; both in function and for finances. When your air filter is clogged, the costs can increase as much as 15 percent. As well, when the filters are dirty, the system has to work harder, causing the over all system to actually be weaker. It’s really smart to check the filter on a monthly basis and replace it quickly once you notice an accumulation of dust and other debris.

Next order of business? Upgrade. If you think it’s time to for something newer or better, make sure you go with a professional that knows how to size and fit according to industry standards. Ask for a cost analysis. How long it lasts is what really shows the value. You want to make sure that when purchasing an energy efficient system, that the equipment will last long enough to pay for their energy saving perks! As for thermostats, they need upgrades too! There are some great new thermostats available on the market that offer very helpful features for saving energy without losing out on comfort. The beauty of this is that you can program several temperature changes that work with your family’s schedules for work and other activities. This way – it’s all done and you don’t have to think about it. Save time, money and stress!

Use what you’ve got; fans. Did you know that the cooling created by ceiling fans can make a room feel up to four degrees cooler during the summer? Make sure to set your ceiling fans to rotate in a counter clockwise during the warm season.( During the winter, change the direction so the fans rotate clockwise in low speed and circulate the rising heat downward.) Aside from ceiling fans, there are also plenty of efficient smaller fans you can use to keep cool at your home office or while watching a movie.

It’s your right to enjoy rest and relaxation in the summer, and if you want to save money, it doesn’t take much. . If you’re home isn’t cooling the way you’d like it to, talk to us! The contractors at Unique Home Building are ready and excited to help you live in the home of your dreams!